Gerard Dooley: The impact Michael Collins had in just 31 years on Earth is impressive

Gerard Dooley writes of his appreciation for Michael Collins — both the man and the movie. 

Michael Collins. Picture: Walshe/Getty Images

Picture the scene: A bus pulls up outside the Diamond Bar in the deserted crossroads of Béal na Bláth, West Cork. A score of men in varying stages of thirst barrel out.

The Diamond is the focal point of the crossroads. It stands alone, perpetually observing this confluence of roads. Above the door, we are reminded that the Diamond was once called Long’s Pub.